The shortlist features 66 future leaders from interior design, architecture, product design and built environment. Australian Design Review says the goal of the program is to empower the next generation of designers, architects and innovators with the resources, insights and exposure needed to make a lasting impact.

“After careful deliberation by the shortlist judges, we are proud to reveal the shortlist for Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 cohort,” the jury says. “They have demonstrated exceptional talent and we are proud to uplift their work.

Of the 66 finalists, four Woods Bagot emerging leaders shave been shortlisted. The final 30UNDER30 for cohort will be revealed on 12 February 2026. 

Sarah Barrett 

Melbourne Studio 

Sarah Barrett is a passionate and detail-oriented interior designer, specialising in workplace and large-scale civic projects. Committed to research, combined with a passion for art curation and fine art, she brings a grounded yet rigorous approach to the design process, thoroughly interrogating constraints to develop innovative, considered solutions to contemporary challenges.

“I feel very privileged to be a part of such a talented cohort of architects and designers,” says Barrett. “The 30UNDER30 program is a celebration of emerging talent, and I can’t wait to see who will make the final 30.”

Maggie Craig

Melbourne Studio

Maggie is a Woods Bagot interior designer based in Melbourne. Originally from Adelaide, she relocated earlier this year seeking greater access to suppliers, consultants and industry events, with the hope that the move may help make it easier to engage more with the design community and expand her professional opportunities.

“This year’s shortlist is a selection of individuals whose efforts shape the way we live, socialise and work,” says Craig. “It’s a privilege to be named alongside the next generation  of architects, designers and innovators across sectors and disciplines.”

Sarah Ellis

Adelaide Studio 

Intuitive, empathetic and nurturing, Sarah Ellis brings a value-based approach to her work as an interior designer. Approaching five years in the industry, Sarah Ellis aspires to craft thoughtful and meaningful spaces, finding balance and inspiration through nature, time with loved ones and the quiet joy of reading.

“Being recognised in Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 shortlist is highly rewarding and provides the opportunity to connect, learn and grow with emerging designers across Australia,” says Ellis. “By supporting the next generation of creative thinkers, the program helps shape the future of design and innovation. I’m honoured to stand alongside such remarkable architects and designers.”

Hailey Zhang

Sydney Studio

Hailey Zhang is a graduate of architecture at Woods Bagot Sydney, where she’s worked for over three years on diverse projects under Domenic Alvaro and Tracey Wiles. Her design approach values bespoke, context-driven architecture that merges creativity, craft and purpose to create spaces with enduring beauty and meaning.

“To me, this program is about staying connected, learning from each other, being inspired, and celebrating the different ways creativity can shape our world,” says Zhang. “At this early stage of my career, that means so much to me. I want to keep an open mind and embrace the idea that the boundaries between different design fields should be more blurred.”

Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 program celebrates talented interior designers, product designers, architects and innovators of the built world aged 30 and under. Each year, the program provides a new 30-strong cohort with life-changing career development opportunities, including 12 months of mentorship from acclaimed industry leaders and an invitation to the high-performance leadership and creativity retreat in Bali.

By bringing together rising stars, industry trailblazers, practice founders, product manufacturers, suppliers and sponsors, Australian Design Review’s 30UNDER30 program platforms and empowers the next generation shaping the future of our built environment.

View the full shortlist here.

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Isla Sutherland
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